Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-25 16:57:15
Samuel Mutunga, the County Police Commander (CPC) in Mandera, recently provided an update on the explosion that tragically led to the death of three police officers in Mandera County on March 25th. During a press briefing, Mutunga disclosed that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations were diligently following leads related to the attack, promising that more information would be shared in due course.
The incident involved a suspected IED attack at a hotel operated by a non-local individual, situated across the fence. Mutunga recounted the moment he heard the explosion while he was in his office, indicating that the blast was perceived as occurring at a distance. It is believed that the improvised explosive device was planted under the cover of darkness, with the perpetrators intending to unleash the devastation when the hotel was densely populated.
The attack, which transpired at approximately 10:40 am, resulted in a loud explosion near the police station, prompting a swift response from security personnel who swiftly arrived at the scene to address the situation. Mutunga highlighted that the patrons present at the hotel during the detonation were not from the immediate vicinity, with the injured individuals receiving immediate medical attention at nearby medical facilities before being prepared for airlifting to Nairobi for specialized treatment.
Tragically, four casualties were reported, comprising three police officers and a civilian presumed to be an employee at the hotel. The establishment itself bore the brunt of destruction, with Mutunga suspecting that the IED was clandestinely planted under the cover of darkness. He urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement and share any relevant information to facilitate the apprehension of the culprits.
Assuring the community of comprehensive investigations, Mutunga underscored the authorities’ commitment to implementing preventive measures to thwart future attacks while extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif echoed this sentiment, affirming the region’s peaceful status prior to the tragic incident and pledging collaborative efforts with security agencies to forestall similar occurrences.
The attack is suspected to have been orchestrated by the notorious terrorist group Al Shabaab, known for instigating terror and violence in various parts of Kenya, particularly in Northern Kenya and Lamu County. The persistent threat posed by Al Shabaab underscores the imperative for heightened vigilance and proactive security measures across the affected regions to safeguard innocent civilians and maintain tranquility.
In concluding the narrative surrounding this tragic event, it is evident that the aftermath of such attacks calls for unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to combatting extremism and safeguarding communities. The resolve of the authorities, the collaborative spirit of the community, and the shared determination to overcome adversity stand as testament to the collective strength and resilience of the people affected by such senseless acts of violence.
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